Sumter, SC

Travel Guide

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Photo by Ucanquoteme

A year-round temperate climate, a remarkable blend of attractions and a thriving arts and music scene make Sumter one of South Carolina’s most attractive destinations.

Originally known for its industry, Sumter now bursts with culture and color. The town is particularly famous for art and music festivals which take place throughout the year. Plan your trip around these to enjoy this lively town at its best.

Visit the Swan Lake Iris Gardens, home to a range of floral attractions from across the globe. The irises are best viewed during the summer months, but you can enjoy the abundant wildlife in the park any time of year. Try to spot all eight species of swan that live in the area.

Summers in Sumter are warm, so cool off at the four different Spray Parks around the city. Stand beneath the refreshing water and use the excellent picnic facilities and play areas for children. When the temperature cools, enjoy tennis at the Palmetto Tennis Center. This stays open into the evening equipment is available for rent.

The sub-tropical climate means that rain can occur throughout the year. When it does, head to one of Sumter’s many indoor attractions. The Sumter County Gallery of Art is one of the best. Here, view traditional and contemporary work from local and nationally recognized artists in one of the state’s best exhibition spaces. Join a group tour and be sure to visit whatever temporary exhibition happens to be present at the time.

For your evening’s entertainment, visit the Sumter Opera House. A year-round program of events makes this one of the town’s most popular attractions. Even if you don’t see a show, the Opera House, which was built in 1895, is well worth a visit for its interesting architecture.

Plan your visit around one of Sumter’s many festivals to see the town at its best. The Fantasy of Lights around Christmas time, the Iris Festival in May and the monthly Fourth Fridays throughout the summer are some of the most popular.

Woodspring Suites Sumter Near Shaw Afb

Woodspring Suites Sumter Near Shaw Afb

2.5 out of 5
2715 Broad Street, Sumter, SC
$115 nightly
The price is $129 total per night from Sep 1 to Sep 2
$129 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Sumter. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions Sumter Mall and Palmetto Park are located nearby.
8.4/10 Very Good! (66 reviews)
"Proximity to everything i"

Reviewed on Aug 24, 2025

Woodspring Suites Sumter Near Shaw Afb
Hyatt Place Sumter / Downtown

Hyatt Place Sumter / Downtown

3 out of 5
18 N Main St, Sumter, SC
$118 nightly
The price is $132 total per night from Sep 4 to Sep 5
$132 total
Sep 4 - Sep 5
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Sumter. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
9/10 Wonderful! (844 reviews)
"Customer service was fantastic and the young lady Jasmine working the desk was very helpful"

Reviewed on Aug 18, 2025

Hyatt Place Sumter / Downtown
Tru by Hilton Sumter

Tru by Hilton Sumter

2.5 out of 5
2607 Broad Street, Sumter, SC
$101 nightly
The price is $113 total per night from Sep 1 to Sep 2
$113 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Sumter. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (638 reviews)
"Very accommodating"

Reviewed on Aug 16, 2025

Tru by Hilton Sumter
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Charming 3-bedroom house in wonderful Sumter

Charming 3-bedroom house in wonderful Sumter

2 out of 5
Sumter
Stay at this vacation home in Sumter. Enjoy air conditioning. Popular attractions Sumter Mall and Palmetto Park are located nearby.
8.8/10 Excellent! (14 reviews)
"Place was very clean and well kept will rent again"

Reviewed on Jul 20, 2025

Charming 3-bedroom house in wonderful Sumter
Cozy comfortable home near lakes, parks and downtown Sumter

Cozy comfortable home near lakes, parks and downtown Sumter

Sumter
Stay at this vacation home in Sumter. Enjoy laundry facilities, an in-room coffeemaker, and air conditioning. Popular attractions Jenkins Center and Birnie Center ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (49 reviews)
"The property is excellently kept. Comfortable, inviting, and spacious We very much enjoyed our time there."

Reviewed on Aug 22, 2025

Cozy comfortable home near lakes, parks and downtown Sumter
New, Oasis Haven near downtown & Shaw AFB

New, Oasis Haven near downtown & Shaw AFB

sumter
Stay at this vacation home in Sumter. Enjoy laundry facilities, patios, and air conditioning. Popular attractions Jenkins Center and O'Donnell House are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (4 reviews)
"Lovely homr"

Reviewed on Jul 27, 2025

New, Oasis Haven near downtown & Shaw AFB
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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